Contact Info
3320 Highway 27 North
Whitley City, KY 42653
- Phone:
- 606-376-5323
Basics
- Length:
- 2.2 miles
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 1 hour
- Season:
- Year Round
Description
The Bee Rock Overlook presents a beautiful view of the dramatic rocks and cliffs along the Rockcastle River. The Bee Rock Campground features camping units on the east and west sides of the Rockcastle River. The Somerset Ranger District administers this area, although the east side is on the London Ranger District in Laurel County.
The cliff known as Bee Rock was once hollow. Old folk tales relate that there were so many honey bees in the area that they blotted out the sun. Their invasion of local beehives became so great that local beekeepers dynamited the cliff and destroyed Bee Rock. According to the legend, there was so much honey that it flowed down the cliff and into the Rockcastle River. The campground also features the Old Sublimity Bridge, a historical structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930’s. The stone used in the abutments was quarried from the adjacent sandstone cliff. The bridge has been restored and is open for foot travel only.
Details
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Scenic Bee Loop Trail, perfect for the weekend hiker, begins on the west side of Bee Rock Campground and follows a steep, partially improved dirt pathway to the northwest for approximately .50 mile. At its intersection with Forest Road #5063, the hiker may turn left for about 200 yards to enjoy a scenic overlook above the wild and beautiful Rockcastle River. Or, turn right and follow the trail signs along the road to the old Sublimity Road, which terminates on the blacktop road. Turn left and return to Bee Rock Campground.
